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TAMARA vs Precision Nanosystems (PNI) for LNP Formulation

Precision Nanosystems LNP: Ignite, Spark, and Alternatives

Precision Nanosystems LNP platforms (now part of Cytiva) pioneered the lipid nanoparticle (LNP) space by providing microfluidic mixing platform for formulation, enabling controlled size, low polydispersity, hence reliable RNA/gene delivery.

What is Precision Nanosystems LNP Technology?

At its core, Precision Nanosystems LNP technology leverages microfluidic mixing to reproducibly formulate lipid nanoparticles with consistent size and high encapsulation efficiency. The two main R&D platforms are:

  • Spark – designed for ultra-low-volume LNP screening.
  • Ignite – optimized for mid-volume R&D formulations.

While these systems remain popular as pioneers in the space, they represent an earlier generation of microfluidic design & integration. Newer platforms, such as TAMARA by Inside Therapeutics, now offer alternative performance trade-offs for modern LNP development. Let’s explore

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LNP Formulation Illustration

Comparing TAMARA, Ignite & Spark

Nanoparticle/LNP formulation system TAMARA
TAMARA
Inside Therapeutics
 Precision Nanosystems Ignite (PNI)
Ignite
Precision Nanosystems (now Cytiva)
 Spark by Cytiva for LNP Formulation
Spark
Cytiva (former Precision Nanosystems)
General
Technology Microfluidics Microfluidics Microfluidics
RNA-LNP & Liposome formulation ✔ ✔ ✔
PDI (Polydispersity Index) ✔ ✔ ✔
Performance
Size Control & Repeatability Full control (TFR/FRR/Vol) Full control (TFR/FRR/Vol)1 Only setpoint, no direct control of TFR/FRR1
Accessible Volume Range 0.2 – 30 mL 1 – 20 mL (up to 60 mL)1 0.048 – 0.48 mL1
Sample Loss / Waste 0 µL ≥ 300 µL (syringe dependent)1 0 µL
Applications
Screening ✔ ≥1 mL1 ✔
In Vitro ✔ ✔ (≥1 mL)1 ✔ (≤480 µL)1
In Vivo ✔ ✔ Up to 480 µL1
User Experience
Ease of Use ✔ ✔ ✔
Learning Time < 30 mins < 30 mins < 30 mins
Average Time per Formulation < 2 mins < 2 mins < 2 mins
Integrated Cleaning / Chip Reusability Yes (cleanable or single use) No No
Risk of Cross Contamination Low (cleanable or single use) Single use only1 Single use only1
Chip cost (per chip) ~$49 / €42 (pack of 10) $64 (pack of 100)
$48 (pack of 200)2		 ~$472
Discover TAMARA

Why Choose TAMARA Over Precision Nanosystems ?

Versatile Application:
Low to Large Volumes

TAMARA supports total formulation volumes as low as 0.2 mL and up to 30 mL, making it perfect for early-stage studies, screening, in vitro, and in vivo applications, in essense being the perfect combination of both Ignite & Spark.

Cost-Effective

TAMARA’s reusable microfluidic chips significantly lower the cost per run, while Ignite LNP is only provided with disposable chips.

Zero Formulation losses

TAMARA’s design permits zero formulation losses – so no waste of formulation material.

Control

TAMARA integrated high accuracy flow controler allows for the utmost control of flow parameters such as TFR (Total Flow Rate) & FRR (Flow Rate Ratio)

Why Choose Ignite? 

Higher Volume Capacity

Ignite accommodates formulations up to 60 mL, making it suitable for larger-scale projects – if you are okay with large formulation losses (head & tail)

Why Choose Spark ? 

Very low volume formulation

Spark allows for the very low volume formulation down to 48µL, with zero formulation waste, making it ideal for very low volume formulation – if you are okay with poor formulation parameter control (no TFR, FRR…)

Still not sure which RNA-LNP formulation system to use?

Check this comment from one of the TAMARA Users

Hear from Our Users

Prof. Raymond Schiffelers

It’s only through daily use that the true value of a machine becomes apparent. When PhD students consistently gravitate toward one device while overlooking others, it speaks volumes. Tamara is in high demand—an endorsement in itself

Prof. Maria Jose Alonso

Our laboratory has been utilizing the TAMARA microfluidic device for nanoparticle preparation, which has enhanced our research capabilities. The microfluidic device offers an adequate combination of precision, scalability, and usability that sets it apart.

Dzenan Kovacic

We’ve set up TAMARA and performed our first mock run. I’m absolutely blown away by how user friendly, efficient and straight to the point this system is!

Want to try it?

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Precision Nanosystems LNP: Which Platform Should You Choose?

  • Choose Spark if your primary need is ultra-low-volume screening with minimal waste.
  • Choose Ignite if you require larger volumes with adjustable parameters.
  • Choose TAMARA if you want one platform covering both ranges, zero sample loss, and cost-efficient chips.
LNP Formulation Inside Therapeutics Contact

Looking to learn more about TAMARA?

Reach out to us to learn how we can help!